, Oct. 16 -- BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan on Thursday said there can be no alternative to elected public representatives in a democratic system.

"If we truly believe in democracy, we must also believe in representation. Those who make decisions for the country must come as elected representatives of the people," he said.

The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking at a discussion organised by Nagorik Oikya at the Dhaka Reporters Unity auditorium.

He said professionals can and should provide expert advice to policymakers, but the final decisions must rest with the elected representatives.

"Yes, professionals can offer policy options, but the final decision must remain in the hands of the public representatives,...